ABSTRACT
Series of poly(L-Lactide) diols with molecular weights (Mn) in 2,069–4,811 g mol−1 were synthesized from L-Lactide using stannous octoate catalyst and 1,4-butanediol chain extender. Operating conditions, i.e., temperature, catalyst concentration, chain extender concentration, and reaction time, were optimized. Maximum monomer conversion and Mn were observed at 0.5 mol% SnOct2 and 1.0 mol% 1,4 butanediol (BDO) at 145°C. Poly(L-Lactide) diols were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, end-group analysis, and X-ray diffraction techniques. Fourier transform infrared confirmed the formation of poly(L-Lactide) diols. Poly(L-Lactide) diols’ % degree of crystallinity was determined by X-ray diffraction. Mn was calculated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and end-group analysis.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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